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How Do Motion Detectors Work In Columbia?

July 29, 2023
Motion detector protecting interior of home

You’re likely to have a pretty good idea of what motion detectors do solely based on their name. Indeed, they identify movement, but how exactly do they work? Take a minute to learn about the technology that drives them and the many kinds of devices you might encounter. You’ll get a deeper appreciation of how they work and how you are able to incorporate them into your modern smart home.

 


What is the technology behind motion detectors?

Identifying activity can be performed in a few different ways, but motion detectors are ordinarily classified into one of two categories - active or passive.

● Active motion detectors: These devices are considered active, as they continually broadcast signals like microwaves and then measure the rate of response. Motion is indicated when the response time changes. Although microwave sensors are most prevalent, you’ll also discover active motion detectors that use infrared light or sound waves.

● Passive infrared (PIR) motion detectors: Frequently encountered within home security applications, PIR motion detectors perform by recognizing shifts in the ambient temperature. ​​Essentially, the device learns what the usual temperature ought to be within a designated area. If there are rapid heat increases, like a trespasser skulking through the space, the detector takes notice and triggers your alarm. Since they aren’t actively broadcasting signals, passive detectors usually consume less power and are more economical to run.

Besides passive and active, you might find hybrid devices that use multiple technologies. These can help lessen false alarms, as every sensor has to be tripped before the warning siren sounds. Other alternatives include vibration motion detectors and tomographic sensors that are often employed in larger commercial spaces.

Ways to incorporate Columbia motion detectors

The chief objective of motion detectors is to spot activity within a specified area, generally as far as 50 feet away. You’ll frequently find them included in exterior floodlights or as standalone devices inside your residence. When activity is identified, they’ll set off your alarm system and alert your dedicated monitoring staff.

But contemporary motion detectors are more versatile than at any time before. As a matter of fact, they can communicate directly with other smart equipment. For example, if activity is recognized, they might trigger your lights to turn on or your video camera to start recording. They may even notify your smart thermostat to change the temperature.

Receive instant alerts and customize settings for animals

One more great advantage of current motion detectors is that you’ll have automatic updates delivered to your cell phone each time the sensor is activated. If you have house pets, you are even able to help prevent false alarms by adjusting settings to account for the size of your furry companions.

Design Your Vivint Smart Home With Motion Detectors in Columbia

Now that you have a deeper understanding of how motion detectors work in Columbia, it’s a great time to integrate them into your contemporary smart home. Vivint’s motion detectors watch over large areas, offer wide-angle functionality, and last for many years without needing a change of battery. They’ll also work in harmony with your additional home automation tools. Are you ready to get started? Call (573) 641-8250 to talk to a helpful Vivint specialist today.